pip-squeak

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pip-squeak" is not correct; the correct term is "pipsqueak." You can use it to describe someone who is perceived as insignificant or small, often in a derogatory manner.
Example: "He may be a pipsqueak in the corporate world, but his ideas are worth listening to."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

I thought I was big, but I'm like pip-squeak next to them.

The New York Times - Sports

The sleaziest aspect of "Inside Deep Throat" is its desperation to make a big noise out of a pip-squeak.

The New Yorker

Sveta Dresher, the Russian proprietor of Pip-Squeak Chapeau (99 Franklin Street), told me, "My customers say they appreciate that my shop is for grownups".

The New Yorker

From reality show pip-squeak to major Hollywood star, all sit on his sofa, swilling sauv blanc while he eggs them on to one appalling overshare after another.

The Guardian

In 2008 he took over pip-squeak TransAtlantic.

Forbes

JohnsonFamily International Value is a pip-squeak in assets, but a giant in performance.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Next day, he was killed by a 77mm "pip squeak" shell, a detail denied by his wife, but uncovered by Moorcroft Wilson.

The Guardian - Books

Harrods archivist Sebastian Wormell said he believed the penguin toy in the picture could be "Squeak" from the cartoon strip Pip, Squeak and Wilfred, as shown in its 1922 catalogue.

The Guardian - Books

At nine she won the "Pip, Squeak and Wilfred" Daily Mirror competition for child musicians, although she was apparently less excited by winning the prize than being allowed to ride on the escalator at Bond Street underground.

The Guardian

He was created to rival strips in the Daily Mail and Daily Mirror but has long since seen off Teddy Tail (a mouse) and Pip, Squeak and Wilfred (a dog, penguin and rabbit).

The Guardian

We have a citation and the posthumous campaign medals – Pip, Squeak and Wilfred - of a great-uncle who died in the trenches and the currency of youthful deaths and injuries gives them more relevancy than they've had since my grandmother, his sister, was still with us.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "pip-squeak" is understandable, favor the term "pipsqueak" in your writing to align with standard spelling and avoid potential misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid inconsistent spelling. Always use "pipsqueak" instead of "pip-squeak".

Linguistic Context

The term "pip-squeak" primarily functions as a noun, often used attributively to describe someone or something considered small, weak, or insignificant. Ludwig AI identifies "pipsqueak" as the correct spelling.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while understandable, the spelling "pip-squeak" is less preferred than "pipsqueak", as highlighted by Ludwig AI. This term, functioning mainly as a noun, serves to diminish or trivialize something or someone, making it more suitable for informal or conversational settings. It's often found in News & Media. Remember to use "pipsqueak" to avoid spelling errors and ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insignificant person

Focuses on the lack of importance or influence of the individual.

small fry

Implies low status or power within a group or organization.

minor player

Highlights a limited role or impact in a particular field or situation.

lightweight

Suggests a lack of seriousness or competence.

nonentity

Emphasizes the lack of recognition or importance.

small potato

Indicates something trivial or unimportant.

nobody

Highlights the lack of fame or recognition.

underling

Emphasizes a subordinate position or lack of authority.

junior member

Refers to someone with less experience or seniority.

peewee

Informal term referring to someone small in size or stature.

FAQs

Is "pip-squeak" or "pipsqueak" the correct spelling?

According to Ludwig AI, the correct spelling is "pipsqueak". While "pip-squeak" is sometimes used, it is not the preferred spelling.

What does it mean to call someone a "pip-squeak"?

Calling someone a "pip-squeak" means you consider them small, insignificant, or unimportant. It's often used in a derogatory way to dismiss their opinions or actions.

How can I use the word "pip-squeak" in a sentence?

You can use "pip-squeak" to describe a person, organization, or thing that is small and weak. For example: "Compared to the giant corporation, our company is just a "pip-squeak".

What are some synonyms for "pip-squeak"?

Some synonyms for "pip-squeak" include "small fry", "minor player", or "insignificant person".